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Is my file good enough for printing?

We're here to help ensure your custom file is formatted correctly so it prints perfectly.

If you’re a small business owner, you can validate your file before placing an order. Then, you can replace non vector text by typing new text in our Design Studio. If you’re a graphic designer, this will help you get familiar with our file guidelines so you can create your ideal design.

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Have questions about file setup?

Design Guidelines

1. File Size

File Size should include your product size, bleed, and trim box line.

To obtain the correct total file size, please review the size specs on the specific product page, which are found under Design Guidelines. There you will also find templates to use and helpful tips for setting up bleed, safe lines, and trim lines for every product and custom size.

2. File Format

We prefer vector-based PDF without backgrounds.

We highly recommend using Adobe Illustrator to save your final print file in .pdf format, at Acrobat PDF 1.5 version. This format will ensure that your graphics are sent to us in their original resolutions with all fonts and outlines that are necessary to print your work in the best quality possible.

3. Special Product Settings

3.1 – Exact Cut, Etched, & Lettering Upload

To create the file for lettering, etched glass or decals with exact cut, cut lines should be 1pt (.0156”) strokes with the spot color named “EXACTCUT”.

3.2 – Shape Cut

For custom shape cuts, we recommend using the pen tool in Adobe Illustrator to draw a path around your shape. This line should follow the contours/angles of the object.
To create the file for custom shapes and standard shapes, cut lines should be 1pt (.0156”) strokes with the spot color named “SHAPECUT”.
If you're unable to use Adobe Illustrator, you can use our Design Studio tool to create your custom or standard shapes.

3.3 – Clear & Brush Metal

Vector-based PDFs without backgrounds are recommended. In the Design Studio and on the proof page, we will replace the transparent area with clear/ brush silver / brush gold to match the product you have selected.
If the proof shows a white background, it comes from your original file. Please fix it and re-upload.

4. Image Resolution

Use High-Resolution images whenever possible.

If you are uploading an image or photo, please use the largest file size with the highest resolution possible.
After you upload the file to our site, we will be able to display your resolution in PPI count. In general, 300 PPI is recommended, and below 100 PPI will be flagged as low resolution.
For outdoor signs, lower than 100 PPI is acceptable, since most of your audience will look at the signs from far distances.

5. Color Setting

All designs and images must be CMYK, not RGB.

Before submitting your design, make sure the file color mode is set to CMYK. Also, be sure all images are CMYK before placing them in your design.
We print in four-color CMYK, because it matches with the ink setting to ensure precise color accuracy.

6. Font Embedding

If using custom fonts, make sure they are embedded.

If you want to use custom fonts and cannot embed, you can convert your fonts to outlines or select new fonts in our Design Studio. Custom fonts that were not embedded will be converted to our default font Arial and displayed in your proof.
To check whether all fonts have been correctly embedded, view the font export settings in Adobe Acrobat.